As summer heatwaves, droughts, floods, and wildfires in Europe become more frequent, UK holidaymakers are beginning to consider alternatives to their traditional Mediterranean getaways. This does not mean we should all abandon the Med – far from it – but it is definitely worth looking at alternatives for the hotter months. The Baltic Riviera and the wider region, with their generally milder summer climate, is emerging as a compelling option.
For many years, the Baltic hasn’t been prominent in the UK market, but this is beginning to change. This article provides an overview of the Baltic Sea coast, from sandy beaches to cultural treasures. It highlights why this region should be on your list of summer holiday options. Plus, we suggest a few additional alternatives if you want to explore something with a truly icy touch.
The Baltic Riviera: A Hidden Gem
The southern coast of the Baltic Sea is shared by Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Each of these countries might lay claim to have the ‘true’ riviera, but it’s used here to include them all. This remarkable area offers many refreshing alternatives to the Mediterranean and southern Europe. Often associated with city breaks, these same countries also have some of Europe’s most pristine beaches. A number of resorts have a history as spa towns and across the region the atmosphere is generally calm and low key. The style of holiday is very much about the outdoors, but look deeper and you’ll also find something that appeals to most tastes.
The beaches of the Baltic Sea coast is well-known for holiday-makers from north and central Europe. Swimming and water sports are popular from the start of the season. However, do note that, because of its northern latitude, the sea takes much of the summer to warm up – think Scarborough rather than Skiathos.
Germany’s Baltic Coast
Northern Germany boasts several charming resorts, such as Timmendorfer Strand and Zinnowitz. Two islands also deserve a mention: Usedom, close to the Polish border, where white sandy beaches meet tranquil seas, and Rügen, a large part of which is a national park. Rügen boasts chalk cliffs, secluded beaches and ancient beech forests.
Poland’s Sopot
This is part of the famous Tri-City area of Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Sopot, offers a vibrant atmosphere with its wooden pier and lively promenade. It’s a short train ride from the historic city of Gdansk. Further east, Lithuania’s Curonian Spit – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – features stunning sand dunes and is popular for wildlife enthusiasts.
Latvia and Estonia
Here the beaches of Jūrmala near Riga, and Pärnu in Estonia, offer a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. These destinations provide a deeper connection to the local culture, with traditional wooden architecture and local festivals throughout the summer.
Activity Holidays: Explore the Great Outdoors
The Baltic region is a good choice if you’re keen on the outdoors. Extensive forest trails, nature reserves, and water sports options make it an ideal destination for those seeking more than a sun lounger on the sand.
Cycling enthusiasts can explore the Baltic Sea Cycle Route, which spans several countries and offers breathtaking coastal views, and passes through quaint villages, coastal forests and unspoiled nature reserves.
Sailing and water sports are particularly popular in the region. Most of the Baltic Riviera resorts have water sports facilities. Meanwhile, in Scandinavia, Sweden has an established sailing holidays sector. Favourite yacht charter points include Gothenburg on the west coast, and Stockholm and its archipelago in the east. The Swedish coast, with countless small islands and inlets, is perfect for a relaxed water-borne vacation.
For something different, consider kayaking in Estonia’s Soomaa National Park during the “fifth season” when the park floods, creating a unique and tranquil experience. The region’s numerous lakes and rivers also offer excellent opportunities for fishing and canoeing, with cycle trails winding their way in between the waterways.
Cultural Breaks: A Journey Through History
When it comes to culture, northern Europe scores just as highly as the great cities of the south. Scandinavia and the Baltic has a long history of trade and commerce, and with those came great wealth. From the middle ages onwards these nations drove some of the most significant economic and cultural development in Europe. Their heritage is rich as a result.
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a perfect example, offering a blend of modern design and historic architecture. Visitors can explore the Nyhavn harbour, visit the Tivoli Gardens, or take a short trip to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
Other examples include Helsinki, Finland’s capital, where you’ll find a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences. For a different experience, consider Tallinn, Estonia, where medieval history comes alive within well-preserved city walls. The city’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with cobbled streets, gothic spires, and a vibrant cultural scene that includes festivals, music, and art.
Beyond the Baltic Riviera: Alternative Cool Climate Destinations
While the Baltic Riviera offers a range of beach and cultural experiences, other northern destinations also provide respite from the summer heat. Iceland is known for its otherworldly landscapes, from glaciers to geothermal springs. Other summer experiences include the midnight sun and whale watching. The Faroe Islands, located between Iceland and Norway, are a hiker’s paradise, with dramatic cliffs, seabird colonies, and remote villages that feel untouched by time. Similarly, Northern Norway, with its fjords and the Lofoten Islands, provides dramatic scenery and remote towns seemingly on the edge of civilisation but very much connected to it.
A destination of the future, today: Planning Your Cool Summer
When considering a Baltic or northern holiday, factor in the varying costs of accommodation and activities. While some destinations like Iceland, the Faroe Islands and Finland can be expensive (sometimes very expensive), the Baltic Riviera offers a range of options to suit most budgets. From cosy guesthouses to sophisticated spa resorts, there’s something for nearly everyone.
The Baltic Riviera is not (yet) a mass market destination for the UK, but there already several tour operators offering the region, so it’s worth checking them out online. These include The Baltic Travel Company (a wide range of tours and destinations including Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia) Great Days Travel Group (tours of the German Baltic north), Love Holidays (Polish beach resorts) and Germany is Wunderbar (German Baltic resorts). Investigate these and others to get a taste of the variety available.
Whether it’s just relaxing on a beach or pursuing something more energetic, the Baltic Sea has a lot to offer. It’s a great alternative to the Mediterranean to keep in mind.
By Declan Morton, writer and editor at Essiell Ltd and Money4Travel.
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